Head to Rhinelander to find the Hodag

Head to Rhinelander to find the Hodag

In Rhinelander, the Hodag is king. If you look close enough, you’ll find him in beautiful parks, outside local businesses and a few surprising places.

Here are a few places around town you might encounter this mythical Northwoods beast.

Hodag History

The legend began in 1893, when newspapers reported the discovery of a creature in Rhinelander that had the head of a frog, the grinning face of a giant elephant, thick short legs set off by huge claws, the back of a dinosaur, and a long tail with spears at the end. The story spread, and soon newspapers around the country began reporting on the Hodag. Learn about what happened next—and other stories of early Rhinelander—at the Rhinelander Historical Museum.

Hodags around Town

Intrepid explorers will come across Hodags throughout Rhinelander, whether they’re welcoming visitors to Pioneer Park or keeping watch over the city’s historic downtown. You’ll find more than two dozen sculptures, murals and more throughout town—check out our interactive Hodag map for more information.

Hodag Selfie

Outside the Rhinelander Area Chamber of Commerce, you’ll find one of the most-photographed spots in town: an oversized Hodag statue flashes its claws and teeth for visitors year-round.